An independent panel set up by the federal government has found that social media personality Idris Okuneye, widely known as Bobrisky, was granted extensive privileges during her six-month prison sentence in 2024 for naira abuse. The panel, inaugurated by Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo following allegations by activist VeryDarkMan, confirmed that Bobrisky had access to a mobile phone and a television while detained at both the medium and maximum security custodial centres in Kirikiri, Lagos. The report detailed that in the medium security facility, she occupied a private cell fitted with a personal toilet and bathroom, carpeted flooring, refrigerator, humidifier, and improved lighting. Meals were reportedly brought in from outside, and she was allowed visitors beyond approved limits. The panel described these conditions as "far beyond what is permissible" under standard prison regulations. VeryDarkMan had earlier circulated an audio recording in which Bobrisky allegedly claimed that lawyer Femi Falana and musician Falz sought a presidential pardon for her in exchange for N10 million, a claim she denied and threatened to litigate. The panel has recommended that VeryDarkMan be prosecuted for criminal libel. Findings have been submitted to the minister, who is expected to determine next steps in consultation with relevant agencies.

💡 NaijaBuzz Take

Bobrisky served a sentence for naira abuse yet lived in a cell with a TV, refrigerator, and private bathroom while ordinary inmates endure overcrowding and no electricity. The panel's discovery of her privileges exposes a two-tier detention system where celebrity status determines living conditions. If VeryDarkMan is prosecuted for libel, the same standard must apply to officials who allowed prison rules to be bypassed. The interior ministry now holds the evidence of preferential treatment — its response will signal whether accountability is for everyone or just the powerless.

⚖️ NaijaBuzz Take is AI-assisted editorial opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →